By Amrit Pal Sidhu #Babushahi Network
Sri Muktsar Sahib, September 24:
In a bid to ensure a smooth and efficient paddy procurement season, Deputy Commissioner Amit Kumar Panchal has issued directives to procurement agencies and all relevant stakeholders. The focus is on creating a hassle-free and uninterrupted process for farmers during the upcoming procurement period.
During a comprehensive meeting with officials from various departments, procurement agencies, commission agents, millers, labourers, and transporters, DC Panchal emphasized the necessity of having all arrangements in place well ahead of time. This preparation is crucial to prevent any inconvenience to farmers at the mandis.
A critical point highlighted by Panchal was the moisture content of the paddy brought to the mandis. Farmers have been urged to ensure their paddy is properly dried, adhering to the permissible moisture content limit of 17% as per government norms.
The District Mandi Officer has been tasked with ensuring essential facilities at all procurement centers. This includes the availability of clean drinking water, proper sanitation, adequate lighting, and efficient traffic management. The Police Department has also been instructed to maintain smooth traffic flow around the mandis and to enhance checks to prevent the influx of paddy from neighboring states into Punjab.
Moreover, procurement agencies have been directed to guarantee timely procurement and lifting of paddy. Any arising issues are to be resolved promptly to maintain the flow of operations. The DC called for robust coordination among all departments and stakeholders throughout the procurement season.
Representatives from commission agents, millers, labourers, and transporters were encouraged to cooperate fully with the administration to facilitate a seamless procurement process for farmers.
The meeting saw participation from SDM Gurkirandeep Singh, District Food and Supplies Controller Himanshu Kakkar, and District Mandi Officer Ajaypal Singh, alongside various representatives from the involved sectors. Their collective efforts are aimed at ensuring that this year's paddy procurement is conducted efficiently and effectively, benefiting all parties involved.